Cheap Project Ideas for Novice Mechanics

Novice mechanics have many interesting projects that they can complete that won’t cost an exuberant amount of money. While a vehicle with minor mechanical issues that a novice could repair might be expensive, there are some alternatives to a car. These smaller engines can help an aspiring self-taught mechanic to learn how engines work on a small scale, allowing them to move on to bigger, more complicated projects.

Push Mowers and Weed Trimmers

With both gas powered and electric trimmers and push mowers on the market, new mechanics can find broken, malfunctioning, or failing machines for a fraction of what they would cost new. Lawn mowers and weed trimmers that just won’t start are frequently given away for free; the owners may not realize just how simple it is to fix many of the issues that occur with these smaller engines. Once repaired, the mechanic could even sell these machines to collect a profit, then reinvest the money into a larger item.

ATVs and Dirt Bikes

Both ATVs and dirt bikes can have more complex issues than the previous machines, yet many owners are not knowledgeable when it comes to small engine repair. If the novice mechanic can spot one of these broken recreational vehicles for sale, it is likely that he or she can make a lower offer successfully. It will take a bit more work to fix them, but they are also worth much more once they are repaired. They may also make wonderful, cheap gifts for the children, as well.

Small Boats

For a great profit generating opportunity, the mechanic must gain a bit of skill and prepare to put in some elbow grease. Boats can be purchased during the fall at greatly reduced prices, especially if the boat is having mechanical problems. Boat parts may require quite a bit more research and traveling to obtain, but there is plenty of time during the bitter winter months to purchase the parts and repair the boat. Once completed, the boat could be sold right around the time that people begin fishing again. Cheap boats are always in high demand at the beginning of the season, especially by younger families.

Finding engines to tinker with and repair does not have to be an expensive hobby. As a matter of fact, the novice mechanic could actually earn a substantial amount of side income while learning a very profitable skill.